A survey by the University of Michigan's Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy has found that 77% of local leaders across Michigan are not enough residents are willing to run for elected office. The situation is particularly challenging in small and rural jurisdictions, according to the survey's senior program manager. Fayette Township in Hillsdale County, which has about 800 registered voters and is dealing with a proposed solar project, is having a special general election in August to elect a new clerk. Despite a vacancy being filled within a 45-day window, Hillsdale county Clerk Abe Dane said no one has applied for the position. The survey also found that a clerk from a neighboring jurisdiction is contracted to run Fayette's May and August elections. There are proposed bills in both chambers of the state Legislature that would allow for a contract with someone accredited to conduct elections if not a township clerk or deputy township clerk is unavailable to perform necessary functions.